Colonia del Sacremento

Winding cobbled streets combined with an intriguing history makes visiting this crumbling old town feel like a time travelling excursion delving into the past. The Portuguese founded Colonia in 1680 to smuggle goods across the Río de la Plata into Buenos Aires. The Spanish captured it in 1762 and held it until 1777, when tax reforms finally permitted foreign goods to proceed directly to Buenos Aires. Colonia showcases its historical roots in a rustic and unspoilt manner.

The colourful crumbling ancient houses, the winding cobbled streets, the charming little doorways, vintage cars, and the wise old local cats that survey the tourists, make this town uniquely quaint. It is a photographers’ paradise, every corner turned showcases a picture postcard scene.

Spend a half a day strolling this idyllic town, taking pit stops at the numerous age old cafes settled on every corner. Colonia del Sacremento is stress free, easy going and a lovely place to casually explore for a day.